"International migration policy concerns the array of national practices that apply to the treatment of citizens and non-citizens who cross borders, and constitutes the effort, by the United States and others, to share best practices and develop common principles, approaches and initiatives toward these populations. And while domestic immigration policy remains the sovereign right of each individual nation, how each of us addresses migration at home will inform any effort to develop common international understandings. And, of course, we can't urge other governments to develop policies and practices that we ourselves are not prepared to implement. In other words, as President Obama has made clear in reference to our general human rights diplomacy, we should practice at home what we preach abroad."

The remarks were delivered in advance of the Fourth Meeting of the Global Forum on Migration and Development which is taking place this week in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Assistant Secretary Schwartz will represent the United States at the Forum, where high-level government representatives from more than 130 countries will discuss issues affecting migrant populations globally in order to enhance the positive impact of migration on development. This is the first time the United States will send a high-level delegation to the Forum. The previous Global Forums were held in Brussels, Manila, and Athens. You can read more about the Assistant Secretary's travel here.